an american awakening - group study guide

8/14/2019 An American Awakening - Group Study Guide

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Group Study Guide

From Ground Zero to KatrinaThe People We Are Free to Be

AWAKENINGAn A MERICAN


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An American Awakening: A Reflection and Study Guide for Groups and Individuals 1

An American Awakening A Reflection and Study Guide

for Groups and Individuals by Sharon Ely Pearson

based on

AN AMERICAN AWAKENING From Ground Zero to KatrinaThe People We Are Free to Be

by Courtney Cowart

Study Guide

IntroductionFollowing the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in the fall of 2005, the EpiscopalDiocese of Louisiana has hosted approximately 7 ,000 volunteers. The numberswho have volunteered in Mississippi is even higher. According to the NationalCouncil of Churches, at the end of 2007, 1.1 million people had given their timeand talents to the region from faith-based communities. In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the St. Pauls Chapel community in lowerManhattan engaged 5,000 volunteers and 15,000 recovery workers.

In addition to the experiences and reflections shared about September 11 and theaftermath of the storm, An American Awakening is a call to commit to living inways that have the power to transform our communities. Besides the actual eventsand the thousands of people that each continues to touch, many issues are raisedthat call for greater learning, exploration, reflection, and action. Courtney Cowartnot only shares a narrative of her experience in New York City and New Orleans;her story is about letting go of safety in order to live into new ways of being.

It is a story of ordinary people being taught to reframe the emotional lensesthrough which they view death, human pain, and poverty and being liberated tolive socially transformative lives as a result. The sightline of the narrative is insideGround Zero from the moment of the attack and for the duration of the recovery,then four years later inside the Katrina recovery in New Orleans. It is meant tohelp us break out of the negative and distorted interpretive loops weve been fedabout the meaning of these twin traumas so that we can and will risk acting onissues confronted in the wake of these events: war, violence, poverty, classism, andracism.

This book is essentially about hope for the future. It shares how overwhelmingevents can transform lives through the power of healing and giving over to Godthat which we cannot control. This study guide is offered to assist in exploringhow to be personally engaged as an individual and community in Gods work of


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reconciliation in the world in the context of group conversation, commitment, andaction.

How to Use An American Awakening for StudyThere are a variety of avenues that can be taken to reflect upon this book in agroup setting. In a faith community, it can be a focal point for an Advent orLenten evening adult program that is bracketed by a meal and worship. It can be astudy series offered during a Sunday morning education time. Or whoever isspurred to action by reading this book can gather to further explore the issuesraised and develop ways to address them through local, national, or even globalmeans.

In recent years, the number of youth and young adult mission trips sponsored bylocal churches has grown exponentially in the United States and abroad. TheMillennial Generation (born between 1981-2000) is highly altruistic and motivatedto make a difference in the world. However, many are ill-equipped for what they

face when they arrive to do mission and lack the ability as a group to reflectupon their experience upon their return to their home communities. For theirleaders, this may be a helpful tool for identifying the concerns they will be facingas well as a means to identify their own values in light of the peace and socialjustice issues that are raised by moving out of ones comfort zone. A companionwebsite, www.anamericanawakening.com , provides another means for socialnetworking, peer-to-peer networking, and blogging that can support these newservant leaders.

The book can be discussed chapter-by-chapter or theme-by-theme. It provides richmaterial for conversation and a challenge for engagement. Each section of thisstudy guide will offer prayers, scripture, reflection questions, and a variety of

options for conversation. They can be used separately or together, however agroup might decide and time permits.

It is hoped that groups who come together to consider this book will notexperience it as a short-term study, but one that becomes a life-long normativecommitment toward working for a more hopeful and just society.

Guidelines for Small Group DiscussionAn American Awakening explores deep-rooted social and spiritual issues such asrace, poverty, class, and violence. Creating a safe space for such conversations isessential in order for individuals to be fully engaged and participate at a level thatpromotes growth and action.

There are several specific models for creating an environment for open discussion.Parker Palmers circles of trust as explored in A Hidden Wholeness: The JourneyToward an Undivided Life (San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 1994) is a space betweenus that honors the soul. He shows how people in settings ranging from friendshipto organizational life can support each other on the journey toward living dividedno more.


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Eric H. F. Law has a wonderful technique for active listening in his work, TheWolf Shall Dwell With the Lamb (St. Louis, MO: Chalice Press, 1993). Thetechnique is presented as a tool for multicultural conversation and dialogue, but itseems valuable for any number of settings and circumstances. Below is anadaptation of Laws mutual invitation technique.

1. Begin by letting everyone know the amount of time provided for thegroups conversation.

2. Carefully name the topic to be discussed or the information to be sharedor the question(s) to be answered.

3. Read the following directions: In order to ensure that everyone whowants to share has the opportunity to speak, we will proceed in thefollowing way. The leader/convener will share first. After that personhas spoken, he or she invites another person to share. The person whomyou invite does not need to be the person next to you. After the nextperson has spoken, that person is given the privilege to invite anotherperson to share. If the person invited does not wish to say anything, that

person simply says pass and proceeds to invite another to share. Thisprocess is followed until everyone has been invited to speak.4. The process is a discipline for the group that allows everyone to share

the power of selection and everyone to share the power of response. Bepatient with one another. Allow time between invitations to hear whathas been said. A person may wish to pass on speaking, but no oneshould be allowed to pass on inviting. No one should invite for another.If the person who is supposed to invite forgets to do so, remind themthat they have the privilege of selection.

Chapter Reflection QuestionsAt the beginning of each chapter study, a series of questions is asked for reflection.

These can be a starting point for personal thoughts or group discussion.1. Where is your story in this story?2. Where do you see God?3. What causes you to pause and rethink your previous assumptions?4. What cries out to you?5. What calls to you?

Thematic StudyInstead of gathering to discuss An American Awakening chapter by chapter, thereader or group may wish to focus on the themes that run throughout the text.Any of the questions or scripture can be used or modified to fit the themes, of which a few are listed:

Poverty Racism War Education Darkness and light

Justice Activism and organizing The Baptismal Covenant Resiliency Leadership


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Guidelines for Bible Study (optional)Each session of this study guide offers scripture for reflection related to the text.One method is the African Bible Study, which offers a means for personalreflection and group insights that may be helpful as the group prepares to discusseach chapter or at the conclusion of each session of study for An AmericanAwakening.

1. One person reads the scripture passage slowly.2. Each person identifies the word or phrase that catches their attention (1

minute).3. Each shares the word or phrase around the group (3-5 minutes, no

discussion).4. Another person reads the passage slowly (from a different translation, if

possible).5. Each person identifies where this passage touches their life today (1 minute).6. Each shares (3-5 minutes, no discussion).7. Passage is read a third time (another reader and translation, if possible).

8. Each person names or writes, From what Ive heard and shared, what do Ibelieve God wants me to do or be? Is God inviting me to change in anyway? (5 minutes).

9. Each person shares their answer (5-10 minutes, no discussion).10. Each prays for the person on their right, naming what was shared in the

other steps (5 minutes).11. Close with the Lords Prayer and silence.


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Chapter Study Guide

Chapter 1: Ash Tuesday

Gathering Prayer: The L ORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in greenpastures and leads me beside still waters. He revives my soul and guides me alongthe right pathways for his Names sake. Though I walk through the valley of theshadow of death, I shall fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff,they comfort me. You spread a table before me in the presence of those whotrouble me; you have anointed my head with oil, and my cup is running over.Surely your goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I willdwell in the house of the L ORD forever. Amen.

Psalm 23

Scripture: Thus says the L ORD : A voice is heard in Ramah, lamentation and bitter weeping.Rachel is weeping for her children; she refuses to be comforted for her children,because they are not. Thus says the L ORD : Keep your voice from weeping, andyour eyes from tears; for your work shall be rewarded, says the L ORD , and theyshall come back from the land of the enemy. There is hope for your future, says theLORD , and your children shall come back to their own country.

Jeremiah 31:15-17

Chapter Reflection Questions: 1. Where is your story in this story?2. Where do you see God?3. What causes you to pause and rethink your previous assumptions?

4. What cries out to you?5. What calls to you?

Sharing stories It is difficult to read this chapter without thinking about where you were onSeptember 11, 2001. Time may need to be spent discussing how the actual dayunfolded for each person: where they were, how they learned of the event, if theyknew anyone immediately affected at the World Trade Center or Pentagon, as wellas those who were on the airplanes involved. Share stories of how you participatedin that days events watching the news coverage, calling family and friends,gathering for prayer.

1. What was your first reaction upon hearing the news of the terrorist attacks?2. What did you do next?3. In what ways did you feel isolated?4. Were there ever moments of consolation, and if so, how did they occur?5. How did the events of the day change your view of the world?6. How did the events of the day challenge your faith or relationship to God?


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Kenosis Dr. Cowart speaks of a desperately urgent and insistent giving over to God, notat all passive almost violent. My whole being in a state of utter tremulouspowerlessness and fear is pleading for a swift and immediate release from beyond.(p. 13) Kenosis (Greek word for emptiness) is a concept of the self-emptying of ones own will and becoming totally receptive to God and Gods perfect will. InMere Christianity , C.S. Lewis describes kenosis as the idea that God is self-emptying. He gives the example of a painter who pours his ideas out in his work,and yet remains quite a distinct being from his painting.

1. At what moments in your life have you been totally powerless? What wereyour thoughts and feelings?

2. There is a saying, Let go and let God. How does this relate (or not) to Dr.Cowarts experience? How does it relate (or not) to your own experiences?

3. Where was God on September 11?

Rachel weeping for her children Jeremiah (31:15-17) recounts the dramatic story of Rachel weeping for her

children as the Israelites are led into captivity by the Babylonians. It is again heardin Matthew 2:18 for the children massacred by Herod after Jesus birth. WalterBrueggemann has often stated that the weeping mother Rachel becomes a venuefor violence and hope.

1. Read the passage from Jeremiah as well as Matthew.2. How are these passages ones of violence and hope?3. How does being at Ground Zero on September 11 become an experience of

hope for the author as she states, It is the moment I am set free?

Closing Prayer: Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and giving life tothose in the tomb. The Sun of Righteousness is gloriously risen, giving light to

those who sat in darkness and in the shadow of death. The Lord will guide our feetinto the way of peace, having taken away the sin of the world. Christ will open thekingdom of heaven to all who believe in his Name, saying, Come, O blessedFather; inherit the kingdom prepared for you. Into paradise may the angels leadyou. At your coming may the martyrs receive you, and bring you into the holy city

Jerusalem. Amen.Book of Common Prayer , p. 500


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Chapter 2: The Little Chapel That Stood

Gathering Prayer: Almighty God, by your Holy Spirit you have made us one with your saints inheaven and on earth: Grant that in our earthly pilgrimage we may always be

supported by this fellowship of love and prayer, and know ourselves to besurrounded by their witnesses to your power and mercy. We ask this for the sakeof Jesus Christ, in whom all our intercessions are acceptable through the Spirit,and who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.

Collect 8, Book of Common Prayer , p. 395

Scripture: Have you not known? Have you not heard? The L ORD is the everlasting God, theCreator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; hisunderstanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and strengthens thepowerless. Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted;but those who wait for the L ORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up

with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and notfaint.Isaiah 40:28-31

Chapter Reflection Questions: 1. Where is your story in this story?2. Where do you see God?3. What causes you to pause and rethink your previous assumptions?4. What cries out to you?5. What calls to you?

Symbols of Shekhinah When Dr. Cowart returns to St. Pauls Chapel, she is struck by the images of glorywithin the building: a painting of the Great Seal of the United States with an eagleholding symbols associated with peace and war, and Mount Sinai rising in cloudsand lightning in the altarpiece. Outside amidst the ruin there are other images: thesmell of decay, pick-up sticks of cable and steel, shredded paper hanging frombarren trees. Shekhinah is derived from the Hebrew verb, which means literally tosettle, inhabit, or dwell. Used frequently in the Old Testament to explain thepresence of God, it is similar to the Greek word Parousia , the anticipated returnof Jesus Christ from heaven to earth. At first the chapel is vacant and lifeless, butquickly becomes a center of sustenance and healing.

1. Our nations motto is E Pluribus Unum . Out of many, one. How did this

come to life in the days after September 11 at St. Pauls Chapel?2. How is St. Pauls Chapel transformed into a space of healing amidst death?Have you ever been in such a space?

3. What makes a space sacred?4. What are symbols of hope for you? Where do you find them in your life?


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Tapping into the Wells of Passion Throughout Chapter 2 we hear stories of individuals reaching out with anenormous capacity to care, to give, and to sacrifice for others. In one incident, afirefighter points to his shield in the shape of a Maltese cross stitched on hisuniform, It means that the person who wears this is willing to lay down his lifefor you.

1. When has the power to care been unleashed in you? What led up to thismoment or occasion? What were your thoughts and feelings before, duringand after?

2. Have you ever met the challenge to see beyond hatred, to go forward intimes of trouble instead of fleeing in adversity? Share what gave youcourage and what sustained you at that time.

3. What gives you the power to surrender fear?4. In John 15:12-13, Jesus says, This is my commandment, that you love one

another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay downones life for ones friends. What does this mean to you? How does itrelate to the post-September 11 world?

5. Archbishop Rowan Williams has said that need is the beginning of truthfulness. What does this mean for you?

The Renewal of Hope Jerusalem with its Temple was the spiritual and intellectual home of the prophetIsaiah, even through the Temple had been in ruins for over 50 years. There is amessage of comfort and reassurance for Israel and the promise that those who arescattered will be called home.

1. Read the passage from Isaiah (40:28-31).2. How does this prophecy give power to those who are in despair?3. How is the creation of the world and the idea of purpose and meaning in

human history a sign of hope in todays world?

Closing Prayer: O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son:Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance andhatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us inbonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish yourpurposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you inharmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect for the Human Family, Book of Common Prayer , p. 815


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Chapter 3: Life Together

Gathering Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, who in the Paschal mystery established the newcovenant of reconciliation: Grant that all who are born into the fellowship of

Christs Body may show forth in their lives what they profess by their faith;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Book of Common Prayer , p. 290

Scripture: But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by theblood of Christ. For he is our peace; in our flesh he has made both groups into oneand has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us.

Ephesians 2:13-14


Transformation Fred speaks about arriving at St. Pauls Chapel (p. 42) ready to give your all butis concerned about his capacity to do so under the overwhelming circumstancessurrounding the relief efforts. He speaks of degrees of liberation from self-concern and the experience of love in the environment that gave him the courageto open up a transformative moment.

1. For what causes or occasions have you given your all?2. What does Fred mean by degrees of liberation from self-concern?3. What are the hurdles you need to overcome in order for transformation?4. When have you been liberated? How did it feel? What allowed for that to

happen?

Healing Wounds and Dismantling Divisions The awareness of stereotypes and the isolation that instills becomes a theme asmore people accept help and more people offer assistance at St. Pauls Chapel andthe surrounding area. Dr. Cowart discovers that healing is going on in the Chapelthat has nothing to do with the attack. It is about healing wounds of class, raceand ethnicity through the compassionate act of helping each other.

1. Read the passage from Pauls Letter to the Ephesians (2:13-14).2. Have you ever accepted help from someone you previously thought hadnothing to give?

3. All it really takes to dismantle divisions, heal wounds, and establish newways of relating is helping each other and loving each other and thats it.(p. 55) Can we do that for one another? Are we willing to give upsomething for that?

4. And when you are equal theres endless possibilities of communion andcommunity. Where is there inequality in your community? What acts of


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compassion can create new fellowship of the future? What steps do youneed to take to begin?

5. How does your church work in silos within your congregation,neighborhood, and community?

6. How can you open your doors for all to enter, where everyone is anequally valued contributor?

Justice and Love

Dr. Cowart shares how all the combined influences working on her throughordinary people giving of themselves out of love, compassion, and faith has shiftedher class prejudices that she did not know existed. The words of Martin LutherKing, Jr. are used as an example of justice is love working to correct all thatopposes love.

I am quite aware of the fact that there are persons who believe firmly innonviolence who do not believe in a personal God, but I think every personwho believes in nonviolent resistance believes somehow that the universe insome form is on the side of justice. That there is something unfolding in theuniverse whether one speaks of it as a unconscious process, or whether onespeaks of it as some unmoved mover, or whether someone speaks of it as apersonal God. There is something in the universe that unfolds for justiceand so in Montgomery we felt somehow that as we struggled we hadcosmic companionship. And this was one of the things that kept the peopletogether, the belief that the universe is on the side of justice.

God grant that as men and women all over the world struggle against evilsystems they will struggle with love in their hearts, with understandinggood will. Agape says you must go on with wise restraint and calmreasonableness but you must keep moving. We have a great opportunity inAmerica to build here a great nation, a nation where all men live togetheras brothers and respect the dignity and worth of all human personality. Wemust keep moving toward that goal.

Martin Luther King, Jr., Beyond Vietnam June 4, 1957

1. Why are the words of Martin Luther King, Jr. recollected in this chapter?What thoughts and feelings do his words evoke for you?

2. Volunteer Ulla Suokko states, When we say things out loud our words andvisions and wishes have so much more power. How is this true for her?How is this true for Martin Luther King, Jr.? How is this true for you?

3. Where have you seen justice at work in your faith community? In thecommunity in which you live?

4. Where have you seen injustice in your community?

5. What institutional structures in your daily life could use an active agent onthe move, stirring hearts to move? How could you be part of such amovement?

6. Name leaders you know who serve ordinary people through service,sacrifice, or empathy. What qualities do they share? Do you share any of these qualities?

7. How can service to others be an instrument of justice?


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Closing Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, whose will it is to restore all things in your well-beloved Son, the King of kings and Lord of lords: Mercifully grant that the peoplesof the earth, divided and enslaved by sin, may be freed and brought together underhis most gracious rule; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now andfor ever. Amen.

Collect for Proper 29, Book of Common Prayer , p. 236


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Chapter 4: The Torch

Gathering Prayer: Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of darkness, and put on thearmor of light, now in the time of this mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ

came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again inhis glorious majesty to judge both the living and the dead, we may rise to the lifeimmortal; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, oneGod, now and for ever. Amen.

Collect for the First Sunday of Advent, Book of Common Prayer , p. 211

Scripture: The L ORD appeared to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the entranceof his tent in the heat of the day. He looked up and saw three men standing nearhim. When he saw them, he ran from the tent entrance to meet them, and boweddown to the ground. He said, My lord, if I find favor with you, do not pass byyour servant. Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves

under the tree. Let me bring a little bread, that you may refresh yourselves, andafter that you may pass on since you have come to your servant. So they said,Do as you have said. And Abraham hastened into the tent to Sarah, and said,Make ready quickly three measures of choice flour, knead it, and make cakes.Abraham ran to the herd, and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to theservant, who hastened to prepare it. Then he took curds and milk and the calf thathe had prepared, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree whilethey ate.

Genesis 18:1-8


Light in the Darkness Resting in God Again, Dr. Cowart reminds us of the altarpiece of the Shekhinah at St. PaulsChapel. It is hope out of devastation, light out of darkness, exemplified by thework that is transforming despair for all who enter the doors. The Chapel hasbecome a resting place. Explore and reflect upon one or more of the writings fromour Christian tradition that follow while asking:

1. When has your heart felt restless?2. How can we be a community where all are welcome to rest in God?3. How can we draw close to suffering in order to restore a meaningful

balance to our lives?4. Who in your church, neighborhood, or community is in need of hope and

rest in God? How can you be that place of rest, a light in the darkness?Where can small seeds of hope be planted?


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Julian of Norwich (1342-c.1416) from Revelations of Divine Love , Chapter V:It needeth us to have knowing of the littleness of creatures and to hold asnought all-thing that is made, for to love and have God that is unmade. For thisis the cause why we be not all in ease of heart and soul: that we seek here restin those things that are so little, wherein is no rest, and know not our God thatis All-mighty, All-wise, All-good. For He is the Very Rest. God willeth to beknown, and it pleaseth Him that we rest in Him; for all that is beneath Himsufficeth not us. And this is the cause why that no soul is rested till it is madenought as to all things that are made. When it is willingly made nought, forlove, to have Him that is all, then is it able to receive spiritual rest.

Ezekiel 36:26 A new heart I will put within you; and I will remove from yourbody the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.

Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and rightspirit within me.

Hebrews 4:9-10 So then, a Sabbath rest still remains for the people of God;for those who enter Gods rest also cease from their labors as God did from his.

Mark 4 :30-32 He also said, With what can we compare the kingdom of

God, or what parable will we use for it? It is like a mustard seed, which, whensown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet when it issown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth largebranches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.

A Thin Space The phrase thin space comes from the Celtic spiritual tradition. It refers to aplace, or state, in which there is only the thinnest of veils between oneself and God.It is a place of presence, of wholeness, and connectedness. For many, St. PaulsChapel became such a place. Pilgrimages have become popular today for youth,young adults, and other seekers of the holy. They are meant to take the pilgriminto unfamiliar territory where challenges are often faced, helping build a new

understanding of ones relationship to God, self, and others. Even to this day,many people make a pilgrimage to Ground Zero and St. Pauls Chapel, to offerprayers and connect with an event that changed the lives of Americans.

1. Where have you experienced thin spaces? What was the occasion? Whatled you there?

2. Were you a pilgrim or volunteer in the weeks, months, or even yearsfollowing September 11, 2001? If not, do you know someone who was?How did it impact your (or their) life?

3. Have you ever been on a pilgrimage? If so, what difference did it make inyour life?

4. Where could God be calling you to go now?5. How can your faith community create a place of wholeness and

connectedness for all people who come to you?

Passing the Torch In the story from Genesis, Abraham provides hospitality to strangers, thusministering to angels. It is the beginning of a new life for him, for soon after, hisbarren wife Sarah gives birth to a son. With that son comes the possibility of futuregenerations the people of God. By a simple act of kindness, his life is forever


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changed. Dr. Cowart concludes her story about the ministry of St. Pauls Chapelwith comments from Ulla Suokko, one of the volunteer workers (p. 73).

1. Read Genesis 18:1-8.2. What gives Abraham the courage to offer hospitality to strangers?3. How did St. Pauls Chapel have the courage to offer hospitality to

strangers?4. What is the torch that has been given to the people who have experienced

and given the hospitality at St. Pauls? Where does it need to go?5. What torch have you been given as a member of the Christian

community of faith?

Closing Prayer: Gracious God, our endings are our beginnings. You call us out into the world,each to where we belong, bringing our torches of healing, compassion andreconciliation with us. Give us the courage to move forward and move on andsomehow allow the transformation to happen and translate all this into our lives inwhatever form it needs to take. Help us to be open to the change to take place in

the way it needs to take place. Let us not go back to where we were. We pray thisin the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who is our companion on the way. Amen.adapted from Ulla Suokko , p. 73


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Chapter 5: The Deluge

Gathering Prayer: God of grace and God of glory,on thy people pour thy power;

crown thine ancient Churchs story;bring her bud to glorious flower.Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,for the facing of this hour, for the facing of this hour.

Hymn 594 (first verse) The Hymnal 1982

Scripture: This is what he showed me: the L ORD was standing beside a wall built with aplumb line, with a plumb line in his hand. And the L ORD said to me, Amos, whatdo you see? And I said, A plumb line. Then the L ORD said, See, I am setting aplumb line in the midst of my people Israel; I will never again pass them by; thehigh places of Isaac shall be made desolate, and the sanctuaries of Israel shall be

laid waste, and I will rise against the house of Jeroboam with the sword. Amos 7:7-9


Set your Plumb Line With the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, families lost more than their homes.They lost their orientation and way of life. It has been compared to Hiroshima andNagasaki everything obliterated.

1. Read the passage from Amos (7:7-9).2. What is a plumb line, literally? What is your plumb line, figuratively?3. What are the linkages that make you who you are?4. Sing (or listen to) the Negro Spiritual, Steal Away, #103 in Lift Every

Voice and Sing II .5. What must it be like to lose your connectivity, your familialness, all that

you once had?6. How can there be healing following decimation?7. How can one go home when home no longer exists?

The Onionskin Just as at Ground Zero, those caught in the devastation of Hurricane Katrina hadtheir lives turned upside down. Those who had come to help at St. Pauls Chapelwere now in need of help. But this time the people of New Orleans had to fight forassistance. The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina opened the eyes of America to theeconomic disparity and prejudice in our country. Violence instead of compassiongets the medias attention. The air is full of fear, and the greatest fear is there isno law. Cries for justice in our land and around the world inevitably confront us


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with the sin of racism. Those cries have not gone away not from the far cornersof the world, not from the communities in which we live, nor from our belovedchurch itself.

1. Amos 5:23-24 (Take away from me the noise of your songs; I will not listento the melody of your harps. But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.) is the theological principlebehind the Episcopal Churchs anti-racism policies and training. What doesjustice mean to you?

2. Research your diocesan policy on anti-racism training. Have members of your church participated? If not, why? If so, what difference did it make, if any?

3. Discuss The Sin of Racism: A Pastoral Letter from The House of Bishopsof the Episcopal Church, which was issued on October 1, 2002.http://www.episcopalchurch.org/social-justice_7388_ENG_HTM.htm

4. Discuss Bishop Charles Jenkins Dark Night of the Soul. Have you everhad such an awakening?

5. Courage is fear having said its prayers. What does this mean to you?

6. Nell shares her story of being called to seek reconciliation; seeking socialhealing in New Orleans. Where is God calling you?

Closing Prayer: Almighty God, who created us in your own image: Grant us grace fearlessly tocontend against evil and to make no peace with oppression; and, that we mayreverently use our freedom, help us to employ it in the maintenance of justice inour communities and among nations, to the glory of your holy Name: through

Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God,now and for ever. Amen.

Collect 21: For Social Justice, Book of Common Prayer , p. 260


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Chapter 6: Moviemaking in Red Stick

Gathering Prayer/Hymn: Just a Closer Walk with Thee #72 Lift Every Voice and Sing II

(American Folk Song)

Just a closer walk with thee,Grant it, Jesus, is my plea,Daily walking close to thee,Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.

I am weak and thou art strong; Jesus, keep me from all wrong;Ill be satisfied as longAs I walk, let me walk close to thee.

Just a closer walk with thee,

Grant it, Jesus, is my plea,Daily walking close to thee,Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.

Through this world of toil and snares,If I falter, Lord, who cares?Who with me my burdens shares?None but thee, dear Lord, none butthee.

Just a closer walk with thee,Grant it, Jesus, is my plea,Daily walking close to thee,Let it be, dear Lord, let it be;Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.

Scripture: Then the king will say to those at his right hand, Come, you that are blessed bymy Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of theworld; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave mesomething to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and yougave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and youvisited me. Then the righteous will answer him, Lord, when was it that we sawyou hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? Andwhen was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave youclothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you? Andthe king will answer them, Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me. Matthew 25:34-40



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All that Jazz Dr. Cowart discovers that jazz is about the human spirits power and possibility,the sound of the brave, devoted, and noble spirit against all odds that we weremade for one another. She is reminded of the torch from St. Pauls Chapel.Discuss the role of music, jazz especially, in communicating the hope and dreamsof the people of God. Listen to some of the songs mentioned in this chapter,followed by a discussion using the open-ended questions Dr. Cowart poses:

1. What is the core belief of America?2. What is the message of our African American spirituals?3. What is the message of the music of New Orleans?4. How can intense suffering yield transcendence and saving grace?5. What if the church claimed this vision, to forge this kind of mutual

availability across the races as our goal in the recovery of Katrina?

Who is My Neighbor? Throughout An American Awakening , we are reminded of the passage fromMatthew 25 in which we see Christ in all who we encounter.

1. Read Matthew 25:34-40.2. Who are the least? Where are they in your community?3. How is God calling you to live a fuller, more compassionate life?4. How is your congregation engaged in service, outreach, and mission? What

is the difference between each of these?5. How has another person ministered to you?

Closing Prayer: O God of unchangeable power and eternal light: Look favorably on your wholeChurch, that wonderful and sacred mystery; by the effectual working of yourprovidence, carry out in tranquility the plan of salvation; let the whole world seeand know that things which were cast down are being raised up, and things which

had grown old are being made new, and that all things are being brought toperfection by him through whom all things were made, your Son Jesus Christ ourLord. Amen.

from The Great Vigil of Easter, Book of Common Prayer , p. 291


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Chapter 7: The Jericho Road

Gathering Prayer: Heavenly Father, in your Word you have given us a vision of that holy City towhich the nations of the world bring their glory: Behold and visit, we pray, the

cities of the earth. Renew the times of mutual regard which form our civic life.Send us honest and able leaders. Enable us to eliminate poverty, prejudice, andoppression, that peace may prevail with righteousness, and justice with order, andthat men and women from different cultures and with differing talents may findwith one another the fulfillment of their humanity; through Jesus Christ our Lord.Amen.

Prayer 33: For Cities, Book of Common Prayer , p. 825

Scripture: Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. Teacher, he said, what must I do toinherit eternal life? He said to him, What is written in the law? What do youread there? He answered, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart,

and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; andyour neighbor as yourself. And he said to him, You have given the right answer;do this, and you will live. But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, Andwho is my neighbor? Jesus replied, A man was going down from Jerusalem to

Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and wentaway, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road;and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, whenhe came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritanwhile traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. Hewent to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Thenhe put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. Thenext day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, Take careof him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend. Whichof these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers? He said, The one who showed him mercy. Jesus said to him, Goand do likewise.

Luke 10:25-37


Giving Voice to the Voiceless The mission of the Office of Disaster Response in Louisiana is to bring peoplehome with dignity and help build a stronger future by creating opportunities foryou th . What the nation saw in New Orleans lifted the veil on poverty in Americaand dramatized the heartbreaking disparity that still exists.

1. Re-read Carolyn Lukensmeyers challenge to America on p. 104-105.2. What is American morality?


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3. What is our moral responsibility as an American citizen?4. What would a new America look like to you?5. How can your church, or you as an individual, be engaged in creating a new

America a New Jerusalem?

Todays Jericho Road The commemoration of the birth of Martin Luther King, Jr. coincides with adiocesan staff meeting led by Bishop Jenkins. He reads the Parable of the GoodSamaritan followed by portions of Dr. Kings speech Beyond Vietnam, whichtalks about the spiritual health of America in a time of war. Many Americans areliving in exile: physically, spiritually, and emotionally. He calls for a long-termresponse a transformation of our society.

1. Read Luke 10:25-37, followed by Beyond Vietnam.www.stanford.edu/group/King/publications/speeches/Beyond_Vietnam.pdf

2. How does each of these speak to civil rights and the eradication of povertytoday?

3. What does Diaspora mean in todays world? In America?

4. Where is the Jericho Road in your neighborhood or community?5. Many statistics, initiatives, and programs are shared in this chapter asindividuals respond to the suffering in New Orleans. What are the statisticsof poverty in your community? Are there organizations you can partnerwith to help make a difference? If not, how can you plant a new vision?

6. Mother Teresa said, We are not called to be successful. We are called to befaithful. Where is God calling you?

Concluding Prayer: Praying the Baptismal Covenant

Do you believe in God the Father, in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and in God the

Holy Spirit? Our God,Its one thing to say the creed but another to put my trust in you.Help me to live with the assurance that you are my Father and that nothing canseparate me from your love, trusting in your forgiveness expressed in Jesus andlooking to your spirit to make me your person.

Will you continue in the apostles teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in the Prayers? Our God,I know I was not meant to go it alone because you created the church to besupportive family for your children.And I know the church is made up of people like me so it isnt perfect!Help me to play my part in the church, so I can learn from the teaching, beencouraged by the fellowship, be renewed in the Eucharist, and find strength forliving each day through prayer.


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Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord? Our God,you understand that sometimes I do things I never intended to do.My sorrow doesnt put it all right.Neither can I use my weakness as an excuse.Help me to begin anew, to experience your forgiveness and to walk again in Jesusway.

Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ? Our God,help me to live the way Jesus called me to live.May my actions speak louder than my words of your love and of new life in Jesus.At the same time, help me rise above my own stumbling speech and give the wordsto express what I believe.Let me be a witness to the Truth.

Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself? Our God,all too often I have looked at people in a very superficial way.Help me begin to see them with your eyes, knowing that every person is created inyour image, as your child.If Jesus died for that person, how can I despise him?Give me a new love that reaches out to everyone because Jesus died for all.

Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being? Our God,I dont want my attitudes to be shaped by the injustices that mar society, by the

discrimination, greed and lust that spoil relationships.In Jesus, color does not count, wealth carries no weight, and gender is notimportant.Help me to live in Jesus, to see people through his eyes, and work for the harmonythat reflects your kingdom. Amen.

by Reginald Hollis 1993 Anglican Fellowship of Prayer (used with permission)


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Chapter 8: Whose Hood is the Hardest?

Opening Prayer: God our Father, you see your children growing up in an unsteady and confusingworld: Show them that your ways give more life than the ways of the world, and

that following you is better than chasing after selfish goals. Help them to takefailure, not as a measure of their worth, but as a chance for a new start. Give themstrength to hold their faith in you, and to keep alive their joy in your creation;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer 47: For Young Persons, Book of Common Prayer , p. 829

Scripture: Remember, O L ORD , what has befallen us; look, and see our disgrace! Ourinheritance has been turned over to strangers, our homes to aliens. We havebecome orphans, fatherless; our mothers are like widows. We must pay for thewater we drink; the wood we get must be bought. With a yoke on our necks weare hard driven; we are weary, we are given no rest. But you, O L ORD , reign

forever; your throne endures to all generations. Why have you forgotten uscompletely? Why have you forsaken us these many days? Restore us to yourself, OLORD , that we may be restored; renew our days as of old unless you have utterlyrejected us, and are angry with us beyond measure.

Lamentations 5:1-5, 19-22


Are You Fyre? Violence has become a way of life for many of our youth today. Those from NewOrleans had an awakening when they were evacuated and got to see what othercities education systems look like. Despite the adversity the youth of the city of New Orleans have faced, they remain resilient. It is about survival. It is abouttapping into their passion for the good of the community.

1. How does the passage from Lamentations speak to you about the youngpeople in Chapter 8? In your community?

2. As Tupac states, Kids are only a product of something. What is thesomething in your community that will form and nurture the kids?

3. What are ways a faith community can break the cycle of multi-generational transmission of trauma that so many of our youth have beenraised with?

4. Fyre means to be hot, unstoppable in your passion and determination. Inthis chapter, this energy is channeled into positive expressions andadvocacy. Where have you seen passion in the youth of your community?How have you supported it?


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5. Who are the Big Mamas in your life? In your congregation? What qualitiesdo they have that you can build upon to strengthen your ministry withyoung people?

6. Resilience is the positive capacity of people to cope with stress andcatastrophe. It involves protective factors as opposed to risk factors.The Search Institute has developed 40 Developmental Assets that arecommon sense, positive experiences and qualities that help influence choicesyoung people make and help them become caring, responsible adults.Participating in a faith community is one of the top assets. Go towww.search-institute.org and download materials to determine how you oryour church can support children and young people in the neighborhoodsand community in which you live.

7. How involved are you in your local education system? What are the issuesfaced by teachers and students in the schools? How can your voice be heardfor those who have no voice?

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is a traditional South African concept regarding peoples allegiances andrelations to one another and became a worldwide concept through the work of Nelson Mandela. According to Archbishop Desmond Tutu ( No Future Without Forgiveness , Doubleday, 2000), A person with Ubuntu is open and available toothers, affirming of others, does not feel threatened that others are able and good,for he or she has a proper self-assurance that comes from knowing that he or shebelongs in a greater whole and is diminished when others are humiliated ordiminished, when others are tortured or oppressed.

1. How can a faith community practice Ubuntu? 2. Shakoor Aljuwani shares a variety of stories of his heritage. How are they

similar to yours? How are they different?3. What was a formative event in your life that changed you?

4. What do you need to give up in order to be reconciled and part of awhole community? 5. How could Ubuntu change you? How could Ubuntu change the world?

Be an Organizer 1. If you had all the resources you needed, what would your wish list be for all

the children in your community? What would be essential? What would beyour second tier?

2. Research ways your church community can be active in supporting youngpeople in your town or city (or beyond). Where are resources lacking, bothhuman and financial? Is there a vision that you can build upon? Whatrelationships need to be fostered for action to begin?

Closing Prayer: Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sowlove; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there isdespair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy; Grant thatwe may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as tounderstand; to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive; it is inpardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.


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Amen.Prayer 62: A Prayer attributed to St. Francis, Book of Common Prayer , p. 833


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Chapter 9: Silence is Violence

Gathering Prayer: Look with pity, O heavenly Father, upon the people in this land who live withinjustice, terror, disease, and death as their constant companions. Have mercy

upon us. Help us to eliminate our cruelty to these our neighbors. Strengthen thosewho spend their lives establishing equal protection of the law and equalopportunities for all. And grant that every one of us may enjoy a fair portion of theriches of this land; though Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer 36: For the Oppressed, Book of Common Prayer , p. 826

Scripture: With what shall I come before the L ORD , and bow myself before God on high?Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? Will the L ORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I givemy firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? Hehas told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the L ORD require of you but

to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:6-8


Being a Prophet Following the march from Central City, Bishop Jenkins reflects, We didnt needto be a leader that day but to begin to stand publicly for the rights and dignity andthe safety of all. Fr. Bill Terry of St. Annas quotes Fr. Daniel Barrett, Thecharism of social justice has more to do with the act than with the outcome. Thereare things we can do, and to do something is so much better than to do nothing.

1. Share a story when you stood up for something that you believed in. Whatwere the circumstances? What were your thoughts and feelings before,during, and after the incident?

2. Share a story of when you did not stand up for something. What were thecircumstances? What were your thoughts and feelings before, during, andafter the incident?

3. How can your church community stand up to the violence in your

neighborhoods, even where you might not live?4. How is the church called to be prophetic today?5. What are the risks involved and what is at stake?6. What are the multiple fronts you can be marching on?


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Our Baptismal Covenant A portion of the Baptismal Covenant calls us to strive for justice and peaceamong all people, and to respect the dignity of every human being. The peoplesresponse is, I will, with Gods help. Fr. Terry says, What we preach is what wedo, and now they are excited about being part of a spiritual enterprise worshipcoupled with praxis.

1. Read the passage from Micah and the Baptismal Covenant on p. 304-305 inthe Book of Common Prayer.

2. How do you live out these promises individually and as a faith community?3. How does your congregation lift up the needs of others as well as peace and

justice issues in the context of worship?4. How can you be more purposeful in coupling your worship with action in

your community?

Closing Prayer: Dearest Lord, teach me to be generous. Teach me to serve you as you deserve; togive and not to count the cost; to fight, and not to heed the wounds; to labor, and

not to seek to rest; to give of myself and not to ask for reward, except the rewardof knowing that I am doing your will.Prayer of St. Ignatius of Loyola


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Chapter 10: The New Jerusalem

Gathering Prayer/Hymn: In Christ there is no East or West #529 The Hymnal 1982 (John Oxenham)

In Christ there is no East or West,in him no South or North,but one great fellowship of lovethroughout the whole wide earth.

Join hands, disciples of the faith,whateer your race may be!Who serves my Father as his childis surely kin to me.

In Christ now meet both East and West,in him meet South and North,

all Christly souls are one in him,throughout the whole wide earth.

Scripture: Thus says the L ORD : I will return to Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem;

Jerusalem shall be called the faithful city, and the mountain of the L ORD of hostsshall be called the holy mountain. Thus says the L ORD of hosts: Old men and oldwomen shall again sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each with a staff in hand becauseof their great age. And the streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playingin its streets. Thus says the L ORD of hosts: Even though it seems impossible to theremnant of this people in these days, should it also seem impossible to me, says theLORD of hosts? Thus says the L ORD of hosts: I will save my people from the eastcountry and from the west country; and I will bring them to live in Jerusalem.They shall be my people and I will be their God, in faithfulness and inrighteousness. Thus says the L ORD of hosts: Let your hands be strong.

Zechariah 8:3-9a


The Issues that Remain Bishop Jenkins states, As Christians, we do not see humans as a means to an end,especially if the end is profit. This is particularly offensive when we see the poor orthe traumatized as a means to an end. As Christians, we see humans as an end inourselves. As John Henry Newman wrote, and I must paraphrase, it is the crossthat places due value upon everything. The cross of Jesus Christ, the hope of Christcrucified and resurrected, gives value to all.


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1. On his visit to New Orleans, Rowan Williams observes, People do thesethings out of fear, and if we want to stop these terrible racial acts we mustfind a way for people to begin to feel safe with one another. How do wemake people feel safe with one another?

2. Revisit the House of Bishops statement on The Sin of Racism fromMarch 21, 2006, atwww.episcopalchurch.org/3577_73047_ENG_HTM.htm , which includes acall on the United States elected leaders to broaden the historic nationaloutpouring of voluntarism experienced along the Gulf Coast into amovement that would make history. How can you engage your electedofficials in justice and advocacy issues? What can your faith community doto promote anti-racism training?

3. How can our values and beliefs be reflected in our public policy? Learnmore through the Episcopal Public Policy Networkwww.episcopalchurch.org/eppn.htm

4. Homelessness in New Orleans has increased 400 percent and is now sixtimes the national average. What is the homelessness rate / population in

your town or city? What actions can your faith community employ to assistthe homeless? How can you give fish to the hungry and teach the hungry tofish?

Koinonia The passage from Zechariah 8:3-9a gives an example of what a new earth, a New

Jerusalem will look like. Koinonia , a term from the Early Church, is the ideal stateof fellowship and community that God intends for us. Gus Newport wants to seeus organize behind an inspiring vision, with the solid underpinning of acompelling, common philosophy that frames what this work is about. He ends bycalling every bishop, every volunteer, every donor, every caring citizen to create amovement that will undertake this generational work.

1. What does koinonia mean to you? How do you live this out as a Christian?2. What is it that millions of Americans are saying when they come to gut andrebuild this city block by block with their own bare hands?

3. What do we owe one another?4. Desmond Tutu speaks of the power of working in community, as opposed

to working in isolation, like a glowing coal that loses heat . . . (p. 169-70). How can this movement of generosity continue in your community? Inour nation? In the world?

5. Together, how can we make Zechariahs vision a reality?

Closing Prayer: O God, you have taught us to keep all your commandments by loving you and ourneighbor: Grant us the grace of your Holy Spirit, that we may be devoted to youwith our whole heart, and united to one another with pure affection; through JesusChrist our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Collect for Proper 9, Book of Common Prayer , p. 230


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Chapter 11: Live Like You Were Dying

Gathering Prayer: Almighty God, whose will it is to be glorified in your saints, and who raises upyour servants to be a light in the world: Shine, we pray, in our hearts, that we also

in our generation may show forth your praise, who called us out of darkness intoyour marvelous light; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with youand the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Collect: Of a Missionary, Book of Common Prayer , p. 248

Scripture: What then are we to say? Should we continue in sin in order that grace mayabound? By no means! How can we who died to sin go on living in it? Do you notknow that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized intohis death? Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that,just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too mightwalk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we

will certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. We know that our oldself was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be destroyed, and wemight no longer be enslaved to sin. For whoever has died is freed from sin. But if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know thatChrist, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer hasdominion over him. The death he died, he died to sin, once for all; but the life helives, he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive toGod in Christ Jesus. Romans 6:1-11


Unmistakable Good Dr. Cowart makes an observation that out of the tragedy of 9/11 and thedevastation of hurricanes has come an unmistakable good. Those children whoresponded with drawings, prayers, and letters following September 11 are of thesame generation of youth who are now coming to the Gulf Coast on mission trips.As Mr. Rogers suggested to parents to tell them to keep their eyes on the helpersfollowing the tragedy of September 11, these children have taken up the role of the

firefighters, police, and rescue workersthe relentless love exhibited by the heroesof September 11 has come alive for them.1. Do you believe good can come out of evil?2. If so, where have you experienced this in your life?3. Katie Mears states, To give up on anybody is not an option. Where have

you given up? Where has your community given up? What will give youenergy to be light in the darkness again?

4. How can you lift up and support leaders for the future in todays childrenand youth?


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Live Like You Were Dying Live Like You Were Dying was the #1 country music song of 2004. Recorded byTim McGraw (Curb Record Label), it is the story of a man with a deadly diseasewho finds he has little time to live. The lyrics and refrain includes:

I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter and I gave forgiveness Id beendenying and he said someday I hope you get the chance to live like youwere dyingLike tomorrow was a gift and you got eternity to think aboutwhatd you do with it what did you do with it what did I do with it what would I do with it?

Ask yourself: What would it look like to live like I was dying? How well and truly did I live my life? How do I want to feel in that moment, when my life will be gathered back

into the arms of a loving Creator? Is there anything I would want to be forgiven for? Could I forgive myself? Will I have spent my life on what really mattered most as best I could

discern it? What are those things that matter most to me?

As a community: What are the things that matter the most to our community? How willing are we to let go of safety because we value something else

much more? Where have we seen in others the growing presence of an incredible light?

What next? Rowan Williams, The life of faith is about being broken open so that life may

happen, relating to Jesus . . . as someone whose light and fire is kindled in us . . .How is God entering our lives and waking us up to his compassion?

How will you be part of the next chapters of this story?

Closing Prayer: O Lord, you have taught us that without love whatever we do is worth nothing:Send your Holy Spirit and pour into our hearts your greatest gift, which is love, thetrue bond of peace and of all virtue, without which whoever lives is accounteddead before you. Grant this for the sake of your only Son Jesus Christ, who livesand reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Preface for the Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany,Book of Common Prayer , p. 216

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